2025 CPT code 76940
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Radiology - Diagnostic Ultrasound Feed
Ultrasound guidance for, and monitoring of, parenchymal tissue ablation.
Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) may be applicable depending on who performs and interprets the ultrasound guidance.
Medical necessity for ultrasound guidance during ablation is based on the need for precise targeting and monitoring of the procedure to ensure effective treatment and minimize complications.
The physician performing the ablation is responsible for the procedure, including the proper use of ultrasound guidance.The radiologist may perform and interpret the ultrasound guidance, or it may be performed by the physician performing the ablation.
In simple words: The doctor uses ultrasound to see inside your body and guide a needle or other instrument to destroy diseased tissue in an organ. The ultrasound helps them see exactly where the instrument needs to go and makes sure the procedure is done safely and effectively.
This code describes the use of ultrasound to guide and monitor the destruction of abnormal parenchymal tissue, which is the functional tissue of an organ. The ultrasound is used to locate the targeted tissue, guide the insertion of the ablation device, and monitor the ablation process in real-time.It is not reported in conjunction with certain other ablation codes.
Example 1: A patient with a small liver tumor undergoes percutaneous ablation. Ultrasound is used to guide the needle electrode into the tumor and monitor the destruction of the tumor tissue., A patient with a kidney tumor has radiofrequency ablation. Ultrasound is used to visualize the tumor, guide the placement of the ablation device, and monitor the ablation process to ensure complete treatment., A patient with a lung tumor undergoes cryoablation. Ultrasound guidance is used to help position the cryoablation probe within the tumor and monitor the freezing process.
Documentation should include the use of ultrasound guidance, the location and size of the targeted tissue, the type of ablation performed, and the outcome of the procedure. A final written report should be included in the patient's medical record.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC can be used if a separate provider performs the technical component of the ultrasound guidance.
- Specialties:Radiology, Interventional Radiology, and other specialties performing ablations (e.g., Urology, Oncology)
- Place of Service:Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, and other facilities where ablations are performed.